Sir Walter Raleigh, an English explorer, soldier, and writer, was released from the Tower of London after over 13 years of imprisonment. His imprisonment began in 1603 after a failed attempt to locate gold in South America, which resulted in his being accused of treason against King James I. During his years in confinement, Raleigh maintained his reputation as a notable figure due to his earlier contributions to the English colonial endeavors, including the establishment of the Roanoke Colony.

Upon his release in 1616, Raleigh sought to regain favor with the crown and embark on a new expedition to the Americas. Although he had the hope of discovering new territories and riches, he found himself navigating a complex political landscape and dealing with the repercussions of his past actions. The release marked a significant turning point in Raleigh's life, as he re-engaged with exploration, but it was also a moment of tension, as his previous failures loomed large.

The event is notable not just for Raleigh himself, but also for what it reflects about the political environment in early 17th-century England. The shifting power dynamics at the time, especially concerning the monarchy's relationships with explorers and adventurers, shaped England's global ambitions, particularly as the colonial competition intensified. Raleigh's subsequent fallout with the authorities ultimately led him back to the Tower, where he would meet his end a few years later.